Unions NSW has strongly endorsed a series of NSW Labor Government announcements made at the Party's State Conference today, which will bolster the rights of migrant workers and renters and revive the State's local government training effort.
The NSW Labor Government will invest $6.5m over four years to develop a Migrant Workers Centre, providing advice, education and training. This is a key measure unions have called for to help prevent exploitation of migrant workers in NSW.
The Government has also pledged $252.2 million investment to employ 1,300 new apprentices and trainees in local government, and a ban on no-fault evictions for rental tenants.
"After a decade of abject neglect under the Liberals, NSW Labor is making up for lost time," said Mark Morey, Secretary of Unions NSW. "Migrant workers have long suffered at the hands of exploitative employers, suffering horrendous abuse and being paid a pittance.
"The establishment of this new centre is a beachhead that will help us prevent rip offs and empower migrants to enforce their rights."
Morey said the revival of local council apprenticeships was an important step forward. "Councils are the beating heart of our communities and this quarter billion dollar investment breathes new life into the State's training effort, creating 1,300 apprenticeships and traineeships for electricians, plumbers, planners, landscapers and more. This tackles the skills shortages while building strong careers."
Morey welcomed the ban on no-fault evictions. "This is a significant win for renters across NSW. It will provide much-needed security and peace of mind for thousands of families and individuals who rent."
"These announcements show that NSW Labor is listening to the concerns of workers and renters. We look forward to working with the government to implement these important initiatives."
